GOLD Coast has a lot of objectives this pre-season, but the one thing the Suns are prioritising is winning.

Following Sunday's narrow three-point victory over Essendon in Mackay, the Suns are now two from two in the JLT Community Series, with the Western Bulldogs to come on March 9.

While most clubs are happy to talk about managing game time, giving youngsters opportunities and working on cohesion, Gold Coast wants to win.

Not at all costs – Gary Ablett hasn't played, Tom Lynch and Aaron Hall were rested against the Bombers and David Swallow is slowly building minutes – but it is at the forefront of their mind.

Since Rodney Eade took over as coach two years ago, the Suns have won 10 and drawn one of their 44 premiership matches.

They need to remind themselves how to win matches.

And when they were trailing by seven points midway through the final term on Sunday, three quick goals to steady and put themselves back in front was a good pre-season sign.

"The result is not the be all and end all, but where we're coming from, it was pleasing to win in the end," Eade said post-match.

Midfielder Alex Sexton put it even more succinctly.

"We're trying to create a winning culture, even if it's JLT," Sexton told AFL.com.au.

"Towards the end they kicked a goal (to get within three points) and it was just about winning the game then.

"In the past we've had opportunities to win games and let them slip."

With just one match remaining before playing the Brisbane Lions in round one of the premiership season, Eade has a strong idea of his best team, but the congested midfield is causing some headaches.

Sexton played his first game of the year against the Bombers after recovering from a wrist injury and starred, racking up 26 disposals and kicking two goals from a wing.

His spot appears safe, but he says the competition for places is pushing everyone to a higher level.

Draftee Will Brodie pushed his case, but with Ablett, Jarryd Lyons and Hall to come back in, alongside Pearce Hanley, Touk Miller, Michael Barlow and David Swallow, spots are at a premium.

"You only have to look around the club and on the training track, everyone's fit and ready to be selected," he said.

"It is a hot spot at the moment.

"Everyone's playing … itching for a round one spot.

"Good luck to the coaches having to pick the midfield."